WORK on the major refurbishment of a play area in Ombersley has now finished and the community has been enjoying the area.

The Worcester News reported last year on the completion of the first phase of the project to benefit Ombersley residents by revamping the play equipment located on the village's recreation field.

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The Ombersley Play Area Action Group (OPAG) raised more than £30,000 in 18 months to fund the project, including £5,000 donated by Fortis Living, a further donation from Ombersley Conservation Trust and the group holding various fundraising initiatives and having its own crowdfunding website.

Now work has ended and the new-look playground is being enjoyed by village youngsters.

The new playground includes a new climbing frame structure, wheelchair-accessible roundabout, basket swing and timber trails. The playground also includes a plaque highlighting the group's efforts.

Those behind the scheme said it was desperately needed as the play area was last upgraded more than 20 years ago and was in need of regeneration highlighting in particular that the old climbing frame had rotted and some of the playground's items had to be removed for safety reasons.

An OPAG spokesman said: “It has been wonderful to see the children enjoying the new equipment and seeing families coming together for quality time in the heart of the village.

"We’re so grateful to the charitable organisations who have donated, not to mention our fantastic local community who have provided amazing support.”